I’m not sure what took me so long to discover the Blackwater Creek Trail in Lynchburg. I’ve lived and worked here just a little over two years. As much as I enjoy walking, somehow I missed it. My son actually discovered it while looking for a place to run with our two labs. A three mile stretch of paved trails, it’s perfect for walkers, runners, bikers, strollers, dogs, and nature lovers. Now, I can’t get enough.

The Ed Page entrance to the trail is just down the street from the ABC 13 newsroom. It’s a great place to clear your head in the lunch time hour, as well as get the heart rate up on a quick three mile walk. Once on the path, the heavy tree shade and steep rock cliffs on either side seem to drop the city temperature 15 degrees. Even in the hot summer sun, it feels like the AC is on while striding down the Blackwater Creek Trail.

On weekends and evenings, my wife and I have started hiking longer sections of the trail for both the physical and emotional benefits. Visitors are first greeted by the beautifully peaceful Awareness Garden, a quiet place of reflection for those whose lives have been affected by cancer. The more rugged and challenging Creekside Trail and Beaver Trail exit off to either side of the bikeway. Hollins Mill Crossing seems to be a favorite spot for fishing and picnicking.

And somehow, this urban treasure has managed to escape a common problem that plagues park and recreation areas in other cities. There’s no trash, there’s no graffiti, and it just feels safe. Everyone seems to know the trail etiquette. Other hikers generally greet you with quick “good evening” as they pass. Bikers ching their bells to let you know they’re cruising by on the left. There’s a common spirit of appreciation for the beauty and wonder of this trail.

Blackwater Creek Trail is truly one of the great benefits of living in this part of Virginia. A salute goes out to community leaders years ago who found a way to make the trail a priority.

Bill Foy

ABC 13 News Director